1 Samuel 25:32-33 And David said, “Blessed be God, the God of Israel. He sent you to meet me! And blessed be your good sense! Bless you for keeping me from murder and taking charge of looking out for me.

David was still in the wilderness and still on the run from Saul. Nearby were the shepherds of a rich man named Nabal. It was shearing time, a time of celebration, and David asked Nabal for food and help. After all, he and his men were protecting Nabal’s shepherds.

Nabal was rude and cut him off. David was not a happy chappy and began to sharpen the swords. Abigail, Nabal’s wife, heard about this. She packed food and gifts and took them to David.

She humbly bowed before him and reminded him with great wisdom of his calling. He was not just an ordinary man who, because someone humiliated him, could sort out that person. She said: “Do not let this day become a stain on your conscience. Do not stain your hands with unnecessary bloodguilt. Let the Lord fight for you.”

Fortunately, David was also a wise man, and he realised that God had sent Abigail to warn him. David wanted to take justice into his own hands because he felt personally humiliated. That would’ve been a big mistake. Therefore, he praised God and thanked Him for intervening and preventing David from making a fool of himself.

How many times do we feel like declaring war on the people who have wronged us? I’ve done that, leaving many bodies in my wake. We must know that the war is not ours. God fights on our behalf. Nabal died ten days later.

When we get angry, we often end up going in the wrong direction. We must learn to keep those selfish emotions in check, because they steal our faith in God. If we can stop those emotions, we can hear when God warns us and prevent ourselves from unnecessarily hurting others because we want to take revenge.

Sometimes, God does not protect you from other people, but from yourself by sending “Abigails” your way. A wise person who reminds you of who you are and where you’re going. Be alert and make sure you listen.

Prayer
Father, help me not to let my anger determine my actions. Help me to listen when You send someone to warn me …

Questions
When was the last time someone warned me or gave me advice that I didn’t really want to hear?
Do I listen when God speaks to me through other people?
Is there anger, hurt, or pride currently trying to lead me in the wrong direction?

Do this now
Today, think of someone whose advice you trust and who can talk to you honestly.
If you’re currently struggling with a difficult decision, conflict, or hurt, intentionally ask that person’s opinion before you act.
If you’re angry with someone, wait 24 hours before responding. Use that time to pray and ask God if He might send an “Abigail” your way to help you make the right decision.